Curtis H. Jenkins

Curtis H. Jenkins, 84, of Benton Harbor passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023, at Hanson Hospice Center, Stevensville, surrounded by both his family and chosen family.

Curtis was born on June 22, 1939, in Dunklin, Mo., to Robert Hess and Minnie Bell (Wilburn) Jenkins.

Curtis moved to Benton Harbor where he fell head over heels in love with Gladys Henagan the first time he laid eyes on her. The two married and between them had four children. Curtis and Gladys owned and operated Jenkins Custom Backhoe Service for over 50 years. Curtis was a skilled backhoe operator and thought by many to be the best operator in Berrien County. He enjoyed motorcycles in his youth and motorhomes throughout his life while raising his children and into retirement with Gladys. He was a faithful husband and a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle.

Curtis leaves behind to cherish his memory his children: Brenda Shaw (Ron Seabury), Ronda (Lane) Holmes, Tyman (Roxanne) Jenkins, Curtis Jenkins (Bobbi Sue Baltazar); grandchildren: Tim (Lissa) Bettig, Dustin (Holly) Jenkins, Tyman (Amanda) Jenkins, Dana Jenkins (Chad Mason), Dalton Jenkins (Jessie Reagan), Rachel Jenkins (Devyn Fairbanks); great-grandchildren: Abigail and Riley Jenkins, Liam and Collin McAndrew; nephew, Richard Krause; and many grand-nieces and nephews.

Curtis was preceded in death by his wife; grandchild, Amber Bettig; parents; sisters: Barbara Krause and Velma Vescelus; brothers: Oral and Herman Jenkins; niece, Janet Watson; and nephews: Shelby Springer and Bruce Krause.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hanson Hospice Center.

Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do at www.heritage-chapel.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Heritage Chapel & Cremation Services, 8747 US 31, Berrien Springs, MI 269-471-2700.